Is Your Car Warranty Covering Your Needs?
Make sure your warranty covers everything it is supposed to. Remember, a service contract is different from a warranty. It covers the costs not covered by the warranty.
Things You Need to Know About Your Warranty
1. Anyone who owns the vehicle in the warranty period is covered.
2. Repairs are free of charge. This should include returning the vehicle to the point of purchase, and any repairs if necessary.
3. After a reasonable amount of repair attempts, if your vehicle isn't repaired; return the vehicle for a full replacement or refund.
4. When negotiating a warranty, if you don't get the terms that are best for you, walk away from the deal. You should read every word of your warranty. If you're buying a used car, it's more than likely the warranty will be extremely limiting in coverage. The seller guarantees nothing, and the buyer must shoulder the cost of any repairs.
5. Dealers are required by law to disclose any known defects. Dealers should also post a buyer’s guide somewhere on a purchased vehicle, and it must reveal the type of warranty on the car, if any, and any problems that are present.
6. Any warranties made by the salesperson are called "expressed warranties". If you feel these are important, have the salesperson put them in writing.
7. Remember to read the warranty carefully before signing. Once your signature is on the dotted line, you've committed yourself to its terms.
